Severe gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
